Having an Intrinsically Safe Workspace

(IS) is a protective technique for the safe operation of electrical equipment in hazardous areas by limiting the energy, electrical and thermal, available for ignition.

In normal use, electrical equipment often creates tiny electric arcs (internal sparks), this becomes an ignition source. For handheld electronics, intrinsically safe is the only method that allows a device to be explosion proof. These devices are incapable of producing sparks or heat which can cause the product to ignite and cause an explosion. This is done by limiting the voltage and electrical currents that enter any hazardous areas.

For example, during the transfer of fuel between terminals and tanker ships, intrinsically safe equipment needs to be used for communication, lighting, etc as this is an extremely flammable situation.

Fires are a hazard in any industry, sometimes the risk is quite evident as it is in the petroleum industry.

A fire needs fuel, oxygen and an ignition surface. An ignition can come from a spark or hot surface, combustion is so rapid that it causes an explosion.

The benefits of intrinsically safe equipment are: –

It helps ensure a safe working environment and protects those nearby from explosion risks.

It avoids the cost and bulk of explosion proof enclosures.

Maintenance and diagnostic work can be performed without shutting down production and ventilating the work area.

For equipment to qualify as (IS) it must be certified as such and must be accompanied by such documentation.